Far from the Madding Crowd, Chapter 19 summary
Chapter 19 of 57 · 8 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 19, Boldwood finds Bathsheba at the sheep-washing and privately asks her to marry him, explaining how completely his feelings possess him. She admits that her valentine is thoughtless and says she does not love him, but his distress moves her to request time rather than give a final refusal.
What happens
- After an unsuccessful visit, Boldwood learns that Bathsheba is at the sheep-washing and goes to find her.
- Bathsheba withdraws along the river, and Boldwood follows her beyond the workers’ sight.
- Boldwood proposes, while Bathsheba says her respect for him does not justify accepting.
- She apologizes for sending the valentine, but he resists her explanation that it is merely thoughtless.
- Boldwood promises protection and comfort, and Bathsheba feels sympathy, guilt, and alarm at his intensity.
- She permits another conversation but warns him against hope, asks for time, and leaves him standing bewildered.
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What does Bathsheba ask Boldwood to give her at the end of their conversation?
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